Rensselaer >> The Hard Rock Cafe project has offered the city of Albany $1 million a year for 10 years in exchange for a letter to the state Gaming Commission supporting its proposal to operate a casino across the river in Rennselaer County.

Representatives for Albany were unavailable for comment by press deadline.

Hard Rock referred comments to Rensselaer Mayor Dan Dwyer, who said the proposal was made about two weeks ago to show they are willing to work with other area communities. He said the city was contemplating the deal and he hoped to hear back soon.

“They’re our neighbors. It’s only right to help out,” said Dwyer. He said the money would not be earmarked for anything in particular.